Am I the only one that prefers the C5 design to the C6?
What sort of made up my mine was to drive back-to-back a '04 A6 2.7T S-Line and a '05 A6 S-Line, both sedans. My impression was the '04 interior was only slightly different than my '96 A6, and was essentially the same size cabin. But the '05 A6 cabin was much larger and the "wrap around" cockpit was better suited for the driver than the C5. Advantage: C6
Engines: The engines of both were very close to each other ('04 had 265 Hp, the '05 had 255 Hp). But in driving, both engines seemed nearly even without one over shining the other. Advantage: Even.
Engine Details: Because the 3.2L V6 now has chain driven camshafts and has FSI, it beats the C5 engines that have the TB (with the maintenance costs) and the older injection fuel system. And the FSI engine gets better MPG Advantage: C6
Transmissions: Since I can't get a '04 or newer A6 w/ a manual, it boils down to the Tiptronic in both cars. The C5 Tip has a 5-speed, whereas the C6 has a 6-speed. With the extra gear, the C6 should perform better overall (which also contributes to the better MPG). Advantage: C6
Electronics: The C6 has the elaborate MMI, which I dislike, the C5 does not. The CD player is in the dash of the C5, in the glove box in the C6. Other electronic "upgrades" available on the C6 probably will result in more electrical gremlins and repairs. Advantage: C5.
Body: As noted earlier, the C6 has a larger body (its 7 inches wider than a C5). Also, the corrosion problem on the roof panel bonded joint that has surfaced on the older C5s (problem is not covered by the 10-yr corrosion warranty) is a negative. But the C6 eliminated the side mouldings that help prevent door dings. Advantage: Slightly to the C6.
Based on my investigations and experiences, I am planning on passing on the C5 and going for a C6 to replace my C4 platform within the next year. Now, if A of A would only imported a A6 with a diesel AND a manual, I'd buy one in a minute!
I would love to have a C6 Avant 2.7 TDI S-line, those look awesome!
Don't get me wrong I still love the design of the C5, it was way ahead of it's time, it is perhaps a little more daring that the C6.
And reliable, my 04 has 100k miles on her, and still with zero major problems.
The problem was that you could not distinguish this S6 from regular A6. Only if you paid attention to different rims, and small badges.
You can clearly tell S4 apart from A4, but not so with this model.
Also, the gap between wheels and fenders is still too large to be pretty, with 19" rims it just accentuates the gaps.
My C5 4.2 is quite thirsty in urban driving, I can't imagine V10, and significantly heavier car. Granted, people who buy the S6 probably are not concerned with mileage
, but it's also quite slow. V10, 420 HP only? Quater mile in high 13's? This car should be pushing high 12's.
So, I am not impressed. WIth the money, I'll take RS4.
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